Author: Johnson Joseph & Hezrone Jaibat; Published Date: 21st November 2024
The journey toward achieving ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) certification for Sapulut began with immense enthusiasm at the start of 2023. Recognizing the importance of elevating our safety and health standards, the management made a decisive move toward ISO 45001:2018 certification. This global standard provides a comprehensive framework for organizations to manage risks related to workplace health and safety while enhancing overall performance. Its implementation ensures not only the safety of employees but also reduces accident-related costs and boosts organizational efficiency.
Laying the Groundwork
The initial phase of this certification process was spearheaded by the Safety & Health Department, with the formation of the “Working Group ISO 45001” at Sapulut. The group included key figures such as our General Manager, Mr. Bryant Wong, FMUEM Mr. Teddy Sius, Camp Team (Johnson, Hezrone, Julius), and KK Team (N. Fadiyah, Edward Lee, Renny Jinoleh). At the outset, none of us had direct experience with the ISO 45001:2018 certification process. Our biggest challenge was the uncertainty of how to navigate through the certification’s complex requirements. However, we were determined to succeed, with full faith in the cooperative efforts of our staff, contractors, and the management.
A Collaborative Effort
Weekly meetings and discussions soon followed, where the working group decided to engage a consultant to help us move forward. The General Manager approved the decision to appoint a consultancy firm, and numerous proposals were reviewed before we selected Think Big Management Consultant Sdn Bhd (TBMC). On April 10, 2024, Mr. Firdaus Ermand, the consultant from TBMC, presented their proposal to the team, which was subsequently approved by MDO on May 2, 2023.
The first step toward implementation was the Occupational Health Safety Management System (OHSMS) Awareness Course, scheduled for May 15-16, 2023, following which the working group expanded. By the end of May, a robust team of 22 members was established to ensure the success of the certification process.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the excitement, the documentation process proved challenging. As we progressed with training sessions and created essential documents, we often felt overwhelmed by the scope and depth of what was required. However, through determination and enthusiasm, the team completed the necessary documentation, inching closer to readiness for the Stage 1 audit.
Initially scheduled for early 2024, the Stage 1 audit was postponed to May 2024 due to internal audit findings that required further attention. While this delay initially caused some anxiety, the message from MDO—“Dear Johnson and Hezrone, thank you for taking up the challenge and take the lead in sapulut’s OHSMS certification. You have prepared well, and have the support of MDO, Ted, HODs and your team. Take strength and confidence in that. Be proactive and responsive and not worry about the outcome. It will be done”—reignited our spirit. We were now more focused than ever on completing the audit with confidence.
Stage 1 Audit: A Success
On May 21-22, 2024, Sapulut underwent its Stage 1 audit conducted by NIOSH Certification Sdn Bhd. The audit, which covered various operations including timber production, nursery, planted tree maintenance, tree inventory, boundary demarcation, forest conservation, rubber tapping, road construction and other supporting activities, went smoothly with no major concerns. The auditor was pleased with the progress, recommending us to proceed to Stage 2 without any critical findings. This success was a huge morale booster, but we knew the real test awaited us in Stage 2.
Preparing for Stage 2: The Final Stretch
With the Stage 1 audit behind us, we now had only two months to prepare for the Stage 2 audit. While we experienced some setbacks due to non-cooperation from a few employees and contractors, constant follow-up, corrective actions, and a unified effort helped bring the team back on track. Despite the challenges, we were fully prepared by the time the Stage 2 audit arrived.
Stage 2 Audit: The Moment of Truth
On August 19-20, 2024, Sapulut underwent the Stage 2 audit, again conducted by NIOSH Certification Sdn Bhd. The audit covered the same scope of work, and the outcome was very encouraging. While one minor non-conformance (NCR) and five Opportunities for Improvement (OFIs) were identified, the auditor concluded that “Based on the documentation reviewed, records sampled, site visit and interview with relevant personnel’s during this Stage 2 Audit, we conclude that, Sapulut Forest Development Sdn Bhd has effectively implemented its Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems in accordance to the ISO 45001:2018 requirements in line with the organization procedure & policy for the above mentioned scope”.
Achieving the Certification
After addressing the minor NCRs, Sapulut successfully obtained the ISO 45001:2018 OHSMS certification. While this achievement represents a significant milestone, the real challenge now lies in sustaining this certification and continuously enhancing our safety and health management systems.
“Achieving certification is not the end goal; it is merely the starting point of an ongoing journey. The true objective is to foster, sustain, and constantly improve a safety-conscious culture within the workplace”. – Teddy Sius, FMUEM
A Team Effort
This success would not have been possible without the unwavering support and hard work of many individuals and teams. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this journey, including:
- MDO, FMUEM, and Heads of Department
- The OHSMS Working Group, whose dedication was pivotal
- All employees and contractors who contributed to the success
- Our consultants from Think Big Management Consultant Sdn Bhd for their expert guidance
As the saying goes, “It takes a team to win.” This accomplishment stands as a testament to the strength of our teamwork, dedication, and shared commitment to creating a safer workplace for everyone.
The path ahead may be challenging, but with the collective efforts of everyone involved, we are confident that Sapulut can maintain this certification and continue to improve its health and safety management systems for the future.
Thank you all for your commitment and perseverance! We are excited about what lies ahead and the continued success of Sapulut’s OHSMS journey.
